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Chicago Red Stars beat Houston Dash to win second in a row

Chicago Red Stars beat Houston Dash to secure playoff spot

By Izabelle Franca

Jul 6, 2024; Bridgeview, Illinois, USA; Chicago Red Stars forward Mallory Swanson (second from right) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Houston Dash during the first half at SeatGeek Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 6, 2024; Bridgeview, Illinois, USA; Chicago Red Stars forward Mallory Swanson (second from right) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Houston Dash during the first half at SeatGeek Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports / Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports
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The NWSL is the scene of many surprises, but the Chicago Red Stars stood out impressively with their second win in a row, this time over the Houston Dash. Forward Mallory Swanson was largely responsible for finding the net and securing the 1-0 win.

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With a 7-7-2 record and 23 points, the Chicago Red Stars now find themselves comfortably above the playoff line, occupying sixth place. This result is crucial, especially going into the Olympic break. Mallory Swanson, with seven goals this season, has a part to play in this. She has been a real goal machine recently, scoring in four consecutive games, a feat not seen since Jen Hoy in 2014.

Swanson's goal in first-half stoppage time was a work of art. The move started with a ball recovery near midfield, followed by a masterful dribble into the box. Swanson then found the top corner of the far post, scoring his seventh goal of the season.

And the Red Star's celebration could even have come earlier. Swanson raced into Houston territory, showing impressive speed. She passed to Natalia Kuikka on the left wing, who tried to cross into the area, but had her first attempt blocked. Without giving up, Kuikka picked up the rebound and passed again to Swanson, who ran towards goal. The Houston defense was on alert, thwarting Swanson's initial attempt, but the striker didn't give up.

Towards the end of the game, Houston tried a quick play, passing the ball through Chicago's defense line. This resulted in a frantic race between their striker and Alyssa Naeher, the Red Stars goalkeeper. The Houston forward beat Naeher to the ball, but the goalkeeper, with a heroic save, got her glove on the ball, clearing the danger and securing the win for Chicago.

Swanson, now on seven goals for the season, continues to be a pillar of consistency for the Red Stars. Her ability to score at decisive moments and her constant presence in attack are invaluable. She is tied with Jen Hoy for the record of four consecutive games with a goal, and all eyes are on whether she can beat Sam Kerr's record of scoring in six consecutive games.

The Chicago Red Stars are in a prime position to make a big impact in the playoffs. With Swanson in top form, she could reach new heights and keep the team in the NWSL playoff zone.

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